Enterprise M3 LEP Chairman appointed Chief Scientific Adviser at DIT

Enterprise M3 LEP Chairman appointed Chief Scientific Adviser at DIT

The Chairman of Enterprise M3 Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), Dr Mike Short, CBE, has been appointed as the Chief Scientific Adviser by the Department for International Trade (DIT).

In the newly created role, Dr Short will build links with research, development and academic communities to commercialise and promote British scientific and engineering exports globally. His expertise and advice will also inform DIT’s policies on science and engineering, particularly in relation to technical aspects of future trade deals.

Commenting on his appointment, Dr Short said:

“I am proud to have been selected as Chief Scientific Adviser (CSA) for Department for International Trade (DIT) with the opportunities for export and inward investment this will bring. In my view it is complementary to the great things Enterprise M3 is doing for economic growth in our area, and I hope will help bigger opportunities and new partnerships for all of us in the future.

Dr Short led Innovation South’s Science and Innovation Audit, which underscores the outstanding strength of Southern England in science and innovation amongst businesses, industries, universities and research institutions.

He was also pivotal to the development of Enterprise M3’s Local Industrial Strategy and is currently leading in harnessing the LEP’s digital economy to drive innovation, productivity and competitiveness.

Kathy Slack, OBE, Director, Enterprise M3 LEP said:

“We are delighted about Mike Short’s appointment to such a prestigious role, which further reinforces our increased focus on international investment and trade. Mike's vast technology experience and his understanding of the future digital opportunities makes him stand out as a first class LEP chairman.”